Mortgage Rate Trend Index

Will rates go up, down or remain unchanged?

Mortgage rates are likely to be volatile in a short week. Week to week, I don't expect much change. But rates will go up and down during the day. Lock when you find a rate you're comfortable with, and don't look back.

Volatility is still the name of the game. European worries regarding debt will be around for some time. There seems to be a growing trend for safe-haven investments, short term, followed by deal-purchasing in the stock markets. With this constant flow back and forward, rates will struggle to settle anywhere. Right now, the market keeps pushing on the 200-day moving average and it appears this trend will continue. I am taking the position rates will remain unchanged over a week, but it will come with a roller coaster ride as well.

David KuiperMortgage planner, First Place Bank, Holland, Mich.

After seeing mortgage bond pricing fall off a cliff over the last couple of weeks, with interest rates increasing slightly, rates seem to be stabilizing in a very narrow range. With international financial and political crises coming to the forefront this week, we've gained back a little of what we lost as investor money flees to the safety of bonds. While rates are slightly above their record-low levels established earlier this fall, rates continue to be very favorable. Consult your local mortgage professional today to see how you can take advantage of this historic opportunity.

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